Filipino design for the home can come in many forms: it can be traditional, modern or influenced by other cultures. In Alabang, two examples of homes that have distinctly Filipino features used in different ways sit right across the fence from each other.

One is a breezy, eclectic Pinoy bungalow that has been lived in since the late 1970s. Another is a bahay na bato or stone house built from parts of a home that originally stood in San Ildefonso, Bulacan. Both are owned by fashion designer Mich Araullo and her family.

More than three decades ago, Mich Araullo’s parents, retired bankers Lulu and Leo Araullo, moved into the bungalow which has multiple open plan living spaces that all have views of the central garden. The home is now filled with antiques, including Dutch lamps hanging from the ceiling, vintage shoe polish boxes on display and electric fans from the 1930s and 1940s restored by Leo.

Across the bungalow is an old Filipino house owned by Lulu’s father, Romeo. Originally built in Bulacan, the original wood paneling, flooring, window grills, ventanillas, and even the elaborate gate was moved to Alabang in the 1980s.

Original article by Chinggay Labrador. Styling by Issa Villar. Photographed by Miguel Nacianceno.

Read the original article (“A Museum of Extraordinary Things”) in the August 2012 issue of Real Living Magazine. To download a digital copy of Real Living Magazine, visit Summit Newsstand at https://summitnewsstand.com.ph/real-living.

Living Area

Everything in the living area was acquired over time â€“ many pieces, such as the antique mirrored cabinets, electric fans, and a wooden chair by the foyer, were actually gifts from friends and relatives.

Vintage Corner

In the living room, an old aparador is paired with vintage electric fans repaired by Leo. Every corner of the Araullo home is made interesting by family heirlooms and other chance finds from junk stores, giving precious insight into how something once considered "junk" can be turned into something invaluable.

Electric Fans

Retired banker Leo loves to restore old electric fans. Some of the General Electric fans that he has fixed are proudly displayed in this corner.

Living Room Detail

The lady of the house relaxes in one of the living areas in the Araullo home. The space is filled with a mix of heirloom pieces and gifts from friends and relatives.

Informal Dining Area

The first painting that Lulu ever bought for her home features a vibrantly-colored flower arrangement. It now hangs in the informal dining room, over a dining table adorned with a real flower arrangement created using blooms from her father's own garden and the park just across the house.

Formal Dining Area

Furnished with a glass-topped dining table with ornately carved legs and dining chairs with solihiya details, the formal dining area has a classic Filipino look. Colorful, vintage Carnival glass pieces brighten up the space.

Outdoor Living Area

Retired banker Leo Araullo enjoys the cool breeze and the refreshing view at the outdoor living area.